Route:Itziar, Deba, Mutriku, Zumaia.
Leaving behind the rocky limestone mountains, home to prehistoric settlements like Itziar and Deba, we come to the seaside towns of Mutriku and Zumaia.
Strategic enclaves with rich histories reveal the stories of founding fathers intent on protecting their towns.
In a beautiful setting dotted with natural caves lies the town of Deba. A visit to some of the most representative caves, such as Ekain, offers us a colourful picture of world-class discoveries dating from prehistory.
A bridge over the River Deba leads us to Mutriku, the westernmost town on the coast of Gipuzkoa. Its port, once a whaling station and even a corsairs' stopover, was the basis of the town's wealth, giving rise to a notable artistic heritage. This legacy can be seen in such significant buildings as the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, the Berriatua Tower and the House of Admiral Churruca, buildings which harken back to naval battles like Trafalgar that marked the course of history.
In Zumaia the hustle-bustle of the streets, the people out in the town squares and the tower-houses-cum-mansions decorated with fancy wrought iron railings compete in importance with the finely constructed churches, all of which reflecting the ever-present social and economic power of the sea.
The extensive beaches take front stage in summer, inviting us to stretch out, relax and let our thoughts wander.
